The Difference Between Natural and Lab-Grown Diamonds: What to Know Before You Buy

Written by Sherry Shi, Co-Founder @ ROEN

The TLDR:

Natural and lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical, though some tools can detect lab-specific growth patterns. Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth over billions of years, while lab diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced technology. Lab-grown diamonds are more affordable but may lack the perceived rarity and emotional value of natural diamonds. For grading, GIA is the gold standard for both types, while IGI is prevalent in the lab-grown market but less favored by luxury jewelers. Ultimately, the choice comes down to budget, values, and sentiment.

The Difference Between Natural and Lab-Grown Diamonds: What to Know Before You Buy

Diamonds have captivated hearts for centuries, their beauty, exclusivity and enduring strength making them an iconic symbol of luxury, love and commitment. Today, buyers can choose between both natural and lab-grown diamonds available in the luxury market. Whether you’re drawn to tradition or intrigued by innovation, understanding the differences can help you make a confident decision.

1. Natural Diamonds vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds: Where Do They Come From?

Natural Diamonds Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under intense heat and pressure over millions of years. They are brought closer to the surface through volcanic eruptions, where they are mined. Significant diamond sources include countries such as Botswana, Canada, and Australia. Each stone carries a geological history that spans nearly as long as Earth itself.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technology that mimics the natural diamond growth process. The two primary methods are:

• High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): Mimics Earth’s conditions by applying intense pressure and heat to carbon to form a diamond crystal.

• Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Uses a carbon-rich gas to deposit layers of carbon atoms on a "seed", gradually forming a diamond crystal.

Both methods create diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to their natural counterparts.

2. Identifying the Difference

Chemically and physically, natural and lab-grown diamonds are virtually identical. However, specialized tools and a seasoned jeweler's eye can detect growth patterns characteristic of lab-grown diamonds. For example, HPHT diamonds may show distinct metal inclusions, while CVD diamonds can reveal linear growth patterns under magnification.

3. Shifting Trends: Then vs. Now

Ten years ago, lab-grown diamonds represented a niche sector in the jewelry market. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), lab-grown diamonds accounted for less than 1% of global sales in 2014. Today, that figure has climbed significantly.

Industry insights estimate that lab diamonds now represent 10-15% of diamond sales, particularly popular among consumers seeking larger stones at accessible price points. 

Meanwhile, natural diamonds remain the choice for those who prioritize rarity, tradition, and the geological journey behind each stone.

4. What to Consider When Choosing

When choosing between a natural or lab-grown diamond, consider factors such as:

Budget: Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 30-60% less than natural diamonds of comparable size and quality.

Environmental Impact: While lab-grown diamonds are produced in controlled conditions, their energy consumption can vary depending on the manufacturer.

Rarity: Natural diamonds are finite, making them inherently rare, while lab-grown diamonds can be produced on demand.

Emotional Significance: Some buyers value the ancient journey of a natural diamond, while others appreciate the remarkable feat of engineering behind a lab-grown diamond.

5. Diamond Grading Agencies

Both natural and lab-grown diamonds are assessed for quality by leading grading agencies.

GIA (Gemological Institute of America): Considered best in class for both natural and lab-grown diamonds, GIA reports are trusted worldwide for their accuracy and impartiality.

GCAL (Gem Certification & Assurance Lab): Known for its precise and science-driven grading, GCAL is the only diamond certification lab to offer a consumer guarantee for the accuracy of its reports, ensuring peace of mind for buyers.

AGS (American Gem Society): Renowned for its exacting standards and focus on light performance, AGS pioneered the Ideal Cut grade, making its certification highly regarded among those seeking exceptional diamond brilliance.

IGI (International Gemological Institute): IGI is prevalent in the lab-grown market, but it's important to note that many die-hard luxury jewelers avoid IGI-graded diamonds, often preferring GIA’s stricter standards and established reputation.

Choosing a diamond certified by a trusted grading authority ensures transparency and quality assurance.

6. Emotional and Logical Reasons for Choosing Natural or Lab Diamonds

Emotional Factors

Natural Diamonds: Often tied to tradition, symbolism, and the romance of Earth’s natural beauty. For some, the idea of a stone formed billions of years ago carries a special sentiment.

Lab-Grown Diamonds: Appeal to those who value innovation, sustainability efforts, or the opportunity to maximize carat size for their budget.

Logical Factors

Natural Diamonds: Their rarity and enduring demand tend to sustain value over time, making them a potential heirloom investment.

Lab-Grown Diamonds: Offer exceptional quality at a more accessible price point, often allowing clients to focus on size or clarity within their budget.

7. ROEN's Commitment to Craftsmanship and Excellence

ROEN crafts luxury jewelry using both natural diamonds and lab-created diamonds. Whatever their origins, diamonds possess an inherent hardness and exquisite beauty.

Not all lab diamonds are created equal. Just as with mined diamonds, the quality of lab-grown diamonds varies depending on the growth process before cutting and polishing. Lower-quality growth often results in a gray or brown tint, not reflected on the diamond color scale, or internal cloudiness.

ROEN is committed to excellence at every step and we exclusively work with top-tier natural and lab rough diamonds to ensure impeccable final products. For those intrigued by the history and growth techniques of lab diamonds, we recommend exploring this concise article by GIA.

Diamonds, whether born from Earth's depths or a laboratory's precision, continue to inspire awe. As technology shapes consumer options, choosing between natural and lab-grown diamonds ultimately reflects your personal values and vision for your future heirloom. Both paths lead to brilliance; it’s simply a matter of what speaks to you most.